Taking a temperature

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) no longer recommends mercury thermometers. Digital electronic thermometers are better choices. Use a digital thermometer which shows the temperature in numbers in a small window. Need to clean the thermometer with lukewarm soapy water or rubbing alcohol before each use, and then rinse with cool water. The AAP feels taking a rectal temperature is the most reliable, and taking an axillary temperature is less reliable.